There’s something so magical about the word “free,” right? It’s a word that lights up faces, fills hearts, and creates an inexplicable sense of joy. Whether it’s free chocolate, free education, or free dhaniya (because, let’s be honest, Indian sabziwalas have made it a right of passage), there’s something universally irresistible about getting something for nothing.

But let’s pause and look beyond the tangible. What about the free things we often overlook—things like a smile, a compliment, or a kind word? These abstract acts of kindness cost nothing, yet they hold the potential to change someone’s entire day, sometimes even their life.

Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (VRA) aptly captures this duality of “free” in one of his reflective Instagram posts, “The best love affairs are built on the idea of being ‘free from the world.’” This is the essence of what we’re talking about—the power of freedom, of unburdened generosity, of giving without expecting anything in return.

The Allure of “Free”

Why do we love “free”? Is it because we can’t afford it? Or is it the novelty of getting something against the grain of life’s hard lessons? As VRA writes, “From the day you are born, you hear ‘There are no free lunches.’ You know nothing is free. So, when we get something for free, we love it. We believe we deserve it. We feel recognised.”

The truth is free things often carry immense emotional value. A heartfelt compliment or a smile from a stranger may not pay your bills, but it can uplift your spirit (and theirs, when they see your reaction) in a way no amount of money can.

The Free Things We Take for Granted

Here’s a list of intangible gifts we encounter every day but rarely pause to appreciate:

A smile: Even in the coldest places— a five-star hotel or a busy marketplace—a smile can be disarming and warm. VRA quips, “Everyone gives me a free smile. When it’s free, it doesn’t matter how fake it is.” The point isn’t how genuine the smile is; it’s about the energy it spreads. Smiles are contagious in the best way possible.

A compliment: Telling someone they look nice or did a great job costs nothing but can boost their confidence exponentially.

Time: Giving someone your undivided attention in today’s distracted world is one of the most valuable “freebies.”

Kindness: Holding the door open, helping a stranger carry heavy bags, or simply saying, “Take care”—these small acts of thoughtfulness ripple out into the world.

How Spreading Kindness Transforms Lives

Imagine a community where free kindness is the norm. Smiles exchanged freely could build trust, compliments could foster respect, and small gestures could create an atmosphere of belonging. These intangible gifts don’t just uplift individuals—they strengthen relationships and communities.

Studies have shown that acts of kindness trigger the release of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” This leads to feelings of warmth and connection, both for the giver and the receiver.

5 Practical Ways to Spread “Freebies” Daily

1. Smile at strangers. It might feel awkward initially, but it’s incredible how quickly people respond.

2. Compliment generously. Be specific: “That colour looks great on you!” or “You handled that so well.”

3. Lend a listening ear. Sometimes, all someone needs is for someone to genuinely listen.

4. Help without being asked. Small gestures, like offering your seat or holding an umbrella, go a long way.

5. Share gratitude. Saying “thank you” to the barista, the delivery person, or the office helper can make their day.

Bottom Line

VRA cheekily ends the post by saying, “When someone tells me, ‘Nothing is free, you are charged for it,’ I tell them, ‘Please keep your free advice to yourself.’”

He’s not wrong; the best things in life—kindness, love, and connection—are free. They don’t come with a price tag, but they’re invaluable. In a world obsessed with transactions, let’s embrace the power of intangible generosity.

So, smile more, compliment freely, and offer your kindness without hesitation. These little things may not cost a dime, but they can create immeasurable value—for others and for yourself.